Crater Lake National Park is a must-visit destination in southern Oregon. The crater formed by the collapse of a volcano contains the deepest lake in the United States with deep blue waters that make for amazing pictures. Pay attention to the weather as much of the road around the Crater Lake is closed due to the snow from November to May.
Located across the California/Oregon state line, Redwood National and State Parks near Crescent City, California offer visitors stunning views, ancient forests, and beauty beyond compare. Make sure to check out Lady Bird Johnson Grove or hike on The Damnation Creek Trail for an unforgettable Pacific Coast experience.
Mount Hood National Forest is a land of incredible beauty with its stunning views, forests, and endless trails. Shred down the slopes of Ski Bowl or hike the Timberline Trail. This all-season destination offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.
The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the Pacific Northwest. The gorge features dozens of waterfalls, hiking trails, and endless scenic drives. Be sure to stop by Multnomah Falls for some unforgettable insta-worthy photos!
Smith Rock State Park is located in Central Oregon's high desert near Bend. This geological wonder has rock climbers from all over the world flocking to the towering cliffs. Hike the Misery Ridge Trail to the Summit Loop Trail for more views, or snap some pictures of one of the park's many red-tailed hawks.
Named for the colorful layers of its hillsides, the Painted Hills is nature's own artist's palette. The unique geological formations provide the perfect backdrop for hiking, stargazing, and exploring the park's many wonders.
Cannon Beach, located on the northern Oregon coast, is known for its iconic Haystack Rock and endless trails. Walk along the beach enjoying the crashing waves and stunning views, or visit Ecola State Park for another chance to experience Oregon's magnificent coastline.
For this itinerary, a rental car is necessary to get around since the selected areas are far apart. The estimated total cost for a rental car would be around $450 for the week, and make sure to factor in gas prices during the trip. Also, be mindful of the weather when driving, as winter and spring months could experience snow or other unfavorable weather conditions.
If you have more time, consider exploring the many amazing nature destinations Oregon has to offer outside of this itinerary, such as the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Toketee Falls, or the Alvord Desert. If you have less time, you can choose the top three destinations from the list above and spread them throughout your timeframe.
The nearest airport is Portland International Airport (PDX) which is located in Portland, OR. It is approximately 160 miles from Crater Lake National Park and is the primary airport for the state of Oregon. Other airports to consider are Eugene Airport (EUG) and Redmond Airport (RDM), which serve the south and central parts of the state, respectively.